PhD Studentships: Harm Reduction Approaches to Improve Health Outcomes for Severely Disadvantaged Groups

Groups in society who suffer the most severe social and economic disadvantage, such as those experiencing unstable housing, food insecurity and migrant populations, are likely to have the worst health outcomes. This PhD will scope the available research evidence and UK service provision to determine harm reduction approaches targeted at the most vulnerable groups in our society and identify sub-populations in need of further support and intervention. A qualitative study will work with PPi informants and utilise purposive targeted sampling to explore the needs, issues, concerns and aspirations of a defined sub-population. This will seek to understand lived experience and health outcomes from an insider perspective, and what, how and why different approaches could support positive health behaviour change. The project will culminate with the development of a grounded or theory based intervention approach. There is considerable scope to shape and develop the project, particularly the focus of the targeted sub-population and the qualitative methodological component.

The successful candidate will work as part of a team, in conjunction with the Norwich Medical School and the School of Health Sciences. The team have internationally recognised expertise in smoking cessation, cancer prevention and harm reduction. Based within the Addictions Research Group at the University of East Anglia, with broad addictions focused research expertise and a wide range of advanced methodological expertise. There will be opportunities for training and development, with flexibility dependent on existing skills and experience. The PhD is offered on either a full or part time basis. We are seeking a student with a good first degree (at least 2:1) and preferably a Masters in a related topic area (e.g. public health, social science, 3rd sector expertise) or equivalent research experience. 

Funding

This PhD project is in a Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences competition for funded studentships.  These studentships are funded for 3 years and comprise UK fees, an annual stipend of £17,668 and £1,000 per annum for research training (RTSG). Overseas applicants (including EU) may apply but are required to fund the difference between Home and International tuition fees.